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After years of stop-start negotiations on working more closely together, Athletics Australia and Little Athletics Australia last week signed a cooperative agreement to develop a nationwide inclusion framework for the sport of athletics.

Delivering upon the strategic priority of both organisations to support a ‘OneSport’ philosophy and to collaborate on projects for the betterment of the sport, the project has seen the appointment of a consultant that will assist in the building of a strategy alongside the great work already being undertaken.

Athletics Australia interim Chief Executive Michael Hall stated “Athletics Australia is currently finalising our Reconciliation Action Plan, we are members of the Pride in Sport initiative and our member associations go to great lengths to ensure access to athletics for all people, but together with Little Athletics Australia we believe we can do more.

“Little Athletics Australia and Athletics Australia can be advocates for athletics environments that welcome all Australians, irrespective of age, race, gender or sexual orientation and this project will set out to ensure that.”

Little Athletics Australia Chief Executive Martin Stillman, echoed Hall’s commitment to diversity, commenting “sport should be accessible to each and every Australian and our collaborative efforts with Athletics Australia to build a framework that ensures the best possible chance for success in this area is crucial.

“We are confident in the work we have completed alongside our stakeholders already, but this framework will build upon a sound base even more. Athletics will be the most inclusive sport it can be.”

The consultant, with the support of Athletics Australia, Little Athletics Australia and their member associations will review the current programs, processes and policies designed to encourage inclusion in athletics.

These will be refined and guide the development of resources to support people working at every level of the sport to promote diversity, whether that be club or little athletics centre competition or Team Australia at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Welcoming the cooperation, Australian Sports Commission Chief Executive Kate Palmer added “the Australian Sports Commission has extensively encouraged a OneSport philosophy by Athletics Australia and Little Athletics Australia and we are proud to support this project to develop an inclusion framework.

“This is another step in the right direction to ensure seamless involvement with athletics in Australia.

“By continuing to collaborate, athletics in Australia can grow its participation base and encourage Australians to enjoy the benefits of sport and physical activity for life.”

Athletics Australia and Little Athletics Australia will provide ongoing updates on the development of the inclusion framework.